Swimming downstream

I was watching a family of ducks swimming this weekend.  There was a small breakaway of ducklings but their mother soon rallied them around and led them downstream, down a small rapid and around the corner to quieter water.  It was a bit hair-raising for the little...

Romance rose style

There is no Shakespearean tragedy when it comes to the Othello Rose.  It is instead big, bold and blousey in a romantic sort of way.  The flowers are large, a handful in fact.  Just the right size to cup and gently hold whilst you give is a good sniff.  I...

Lingering shadows

Work this week has been like a shadow I can’t shake off.  Every time I turn around it’s there.  Watching me, taunting me.  Daring me to twist and turn to see if I can shake it off.  Despite my best efforts I still haven’t cleared the decks this...

Rise and shine

Unlike kiwi rail, summer has had the audacity to arrive early this year. When I opened the curtains this morning at 0600 the sun was already our to play shining across the tops of the mountains and making the herbs and salads in the potager glow. 1 December (tomorrow)...

Glutton’s delight

When it comes to antisceptics Germolene was always the coolest cream to have.  Heaps better than Savlon.  You see it was the pink colour I loved so much as a kid even if it did have a nausiating smell.  Imagine my delight to come to New Zealand and find a fruit...